Face serums: types, ingredients, and how to choose based on skin type

May 18, 2026 · 6 min. read

Facial serum is a concentrated formula of active ingredients that penetrates deeper and works more precisely than a regular cream. Our cosmetologists are asked every day which serum to choose: hydrating, anti-ageing, or brightening. The answer depends on your skin type and specific needs. In this article, we will explain what types of serums exist, how their ingredients differ, and how to find the one that will truly work.

How Does a Face Serum Differ from a Cream?

The difference lies in the concentration and texture. Face serums contain a significantly higher concentration of active ingredients—often 5–10 times stronger than a regular cream. Their molecules are smaller, allowing them to penetrate the deeper layers of the epidermis. A cream covers and nourishes the surface, while a serum works from within.

This is why a serum does not replace a moisturizing cream—it works together with it. The serum is applied first, followed by the cream, which seals in the active ingredients. This order ensures maximum effect and long-lasting changes in the skin.

What Types of Facial Serums Exist?

Facial serums are categorized by their main function and active ingredients. To understand how to choose a serum, you first need to know what it should do for your skin.

Hydrating Serum

This is the most universal type of serum, suitable for almost all skin types. The main active ingredient is hyaluronic acid, which binds up to 1000 times its weight in water. A hydrating serum restores skin elasticity, reduces the feeling of dryness, and prepares it for the next steps. For dry and dehydrated skin, we recommend choosing formulas with several molecular sizes of hyaluronic acid—they work in different layers of the skin.

Anti-Aging Serum

Designed for more mature skin or for the prevention of the first wrinkles. The main active ingredients are retinol, peptides, and coenzyme Q10. Retinol promotes cell renewal and collagen production, while peptides strengthen the skin’s structure. We recommend starting to use an anti-aging serum from the age of 30, and one with retinol in the evening, as it increases sensitivity to the sun.

Brightening Serum

Designed to brighten pigmentation spots, uneven skin tone, and dark under-eye circles. The most active ingredients are vitamin C, niacinamide, and alpha-arbutin. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant, neutralizes free radicals, and gives the skin a glow. This is one of the most popular types of serums among customers who struggle with subcutaneous pigmentation.

Sebum-Balancing Serum

For oily and combination skin. The main active ingredients are niacinamide, salicylic acid, and zinc. These ingredients reduce the appearance of pores, control sebum production, and have an anti-inflammatory effect. Serums with BHA acid, which cleanses pores from within, are especially suitable for acne-prone skin.

Soothing Serum

For sensitive and reactive skin. The formula often contains centella asiatica, panthenol, beta-glucan, and aloe vera. These ingredients reduce redness, strengthen the skin barrier, and restore a feeling of comfort. Such serums are essential after procedures that irritate the skin.

Beautician's advice

Our cosmetologists often tell clients: one serum - one goal. A mistake we see every day is women buying three or four serums and applying them together, hoping for faster results. In reality, active ingredients can conflict with each other, irritate the skin, or simply neutralize each other’s effects. Choose one serum for the morning and another for the evening. For example, in the morning - vitamin C and SPF; in the evening - retinol or peptides. This kind of routine will work much more effectively than a pile of five products.

Facial serums and concentrates Facial serums are concentrated formulas of active ingredients that penetrate deeper and work more precisely than creams. In our range, you will find serums for all skin types and needs — from hydrating to anti-ageing. Choose the one that meets your skin’s needs today.

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How to Use a Face Serum Correctly?

The most important thing is the order. Serum is applied to clean, slightly damp skin—this helps active ingredients absorb better. 3–4 drops are enough for the entire face. More does not mean better; on the contrary, excess remains on the surface and cannot absorb.

A complete routine looks like this: cleanser, toner, serum, eye cream, moisturizer, and in the morning, SPF as well. Wait 1–2 minutes between serum and cream to allow the formula to absorb.

How long does it take to see a change? At least 4–6 weeks of regular use. The skin renews itself in about 28 days, so you will see the true effect after a full cycle. You will feel hydration after just a few days, but reducing pigmentation or smoothing wrinkles requires patience.

Our face serums and concentrates have precise usage instructions—read them before you begin. Some active ingredients, such as retinol or acids, should be introduced into your routine gradually—start 2–3 times per week and only then increase the frequency.

Serums Recommended by Our Cosmetologists

We have selected three facial serums that suit different needs and skin types. Each of them is loved by our customers and has proven its effectiveness in a real skincare routine. Choose according to what your skin needs most today.

DR. SPILLER

COLLAGEN AQUA PLUS - Aqua Plus Collagen Serum, 50 ml

This gentle, lightweight serum contains a high concentration of collagen hydrolysate, which helps restore skin elasticity, smooth the appearance of wr...

€40.50 View

TRAWENMOOR ORGANIC

Trawenmoor by Dr. Spiller HUMIC SERUM - Organic Humic Acid Serum, 30ml

Humic Acid Serum – the absolute heart of this brand and a must-have product. This highly concentrated, multifunctional serum penetrates the deeper lay...

€76.80 View

SESDERMA

C-VIT liposomal serum, 30 ml

C-VIT liposomal serum is designed for the care of the face, eye area, and lips. Its active ingredients help prevent the formation of fine lines, reduc...

€49.00 View

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At what age should you start using a face serum?

A moisturizing serum with hyaluronic acid can be used from the age of 20 — it is suitable for all skin types and has no side effects. Brightening serums with vitamin C can be introduced when the first pigmentation spots appear or when you want more radiance. We recommend anti-aging serums with retinol or peptides from the age of 28–30, when collagen production begins to decrease. The most important factor is not age, but the skin’s needs at a specific time.

Can you use multiple serums at the same time?

Yes, but on the condition that the ingredients do not conflict. For example, hyaluronic acid works well with everything. Vitamin C and niacinamide work together in modern formulas, although it was previously thought otherwise. Retinol should not be mixed with AHA/BHA acids or vitamin C - this is too strong for the skin. The best solution is one serum in the morning and another in the evening. This way, the active ingredients work at full strength and the skin is not irritated.

Does a serum replace a moisturizer?

No, serum does not replace cream. These are two different products with different functions. Serum is a concentrated formula of active ingredients that absorbs deeply and works within the skin. Cream covers the surface, seals in moisture, and strengthens the skin barrier. Without cream, the active ingredients in the serum can evaporate quickly, especially on dry skin. The correct order is serum first, followed by cream, and in the morning, sun protection as well.

How long does it take to see the effects of the serum?

You will feel the effects of a moisturizing serum within 3–7 days – the skin will become more elastic and feel less tight. Brightening and anti-ageing serums require patience – at least 4–6 weeks of regular use. Pigmentation spots fade slowly, and wrinkles smooth out gradually. You will see the full potential of the serum after 2–3 months. It is important to use it regularly, as the effect fades if the routine is discontinued.

How can I tell if a serum is suitable for my skin?

The right serum reduces the main skin concern after a few weeks—moisturizing, brightening, smoothing, or reducing acne. The skin looks healthier and non-irritated. If redness, itching, breakouts, or peeling occurs after using the serum and does not go away within a few days, the formula is not suitable. Introduce new active ingredients gradually—at first 2-3 times a week, and monitor the reaction. If you are unsure, consult our cosmetologist before purchasing.